Graeme Peace was named Citizen of the Year, while Brylee Clingan was crowned Young Person of the Year during a reception at Kerang on Wednesday, January 21.
Mayor Garner Smith congratulated the winners on the prestigious achievement and recognised all nominees for their ongoing generosity and contributions.
“All who were nominated are winners as far as my fellow councillors and I are concerned, with our communities the benefactors of their efforts,” he said.
Mr Peace received the top title for his more-than three decades of service to multiple Cohuna-based organisations.
“Graeme has been a quiet but constant force for good within the Cohuna community,” Cr Smith said.
“Through his tireless volunteer work, leadership and generosity, he has made a lasting contribution to local sport, agriculture, faith and community life.”
A member of Cohuna Golf Bowling Club for over 30 years, Mr Peace has served on the general committee, as a pennant team selector and president for two years.
He was integral in reviving the Wednesday night bowls decline, and is credited for making the event one of the club’s most popular fixtures.
Mr Peace has also had a long association with the Cohuna Agricultural, Pastoral and Horticultural Society, which he is a life member of.
“Graeme was the society’s president for 10 years, was a key organiser of the Cohuna Show and played a pivotal role in the construction of the new Morton Garner Pavilion at the Cohuna Recreation Reserve,” Cr Smith said.
Young Person of the Year Ms Clingan was recognised for her leadership at Kerang Football Netball Club.
Cr Smith said the outstanding maturity and commitment she demonstrated was beyond her years.
“During the 2025 netball season, Brylee proved herself to be an invaluable contributor both on and off the court,” he said.
“She regularly umpired each week, often taking on two games in a day, while also assisting with umpiring at training around her own sessions.”
Off the court, Ms Clingan volunteered at training night dinners, helped in the kitchen and contributed creatively to the club’s social media team.
Both winners will be recognised for their awards as part of Australia Day celebrations occurring in the shire on Monday, January 26.
Award nominees were also honoured during the civic ceremony in Kerang.
Citizen of the Year nominees included Heather Mortlock of Kerang, Merril Scriven of Kerang and Lee Walkington of Cohuna.
The Young Person of the Year nominees included Sophie Hunter of Kerang.
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